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Celadon

A small amount of iron (1–3%) fired in reduction produces the jade-like greens and blue-greens that define celadon. The depth and transparency of the glaze come from iron in its reduced (ferrous) state, which absorbs red wavelengths and transmits green.

Recipe

A reliable cone 10 celadon base. The low iron content is critical — even half a percent shifts the color noticeably.

Material%
Feldspar (Custer)40
Whiting20
Silica (flint)25
EPK Kaolin13
Red iron oxide2

Firing

Fire to cone 10 (1285 °C / 2345 °F) in heavy reduction. Reduction must be consistent — breaks in reduction will produce olive or yellow tones instead of green. A slow cool through 1100–900 °C enhances depth.

Notes

Apply thick — celadon gains its characteristic depth from pooling in carved or textured areas. Thin application produces pale, washed-out color. Best on a white or light stoneware body; dark bodies mute the color.

For bluer tones, add 0.5% cobalt carbonate. For warmer olive tones, increase iron to 3%.

Test Tiles

Photos of test tiles will be added here.